LITERATURE: Jewish Book Festival

Whether you're of Jewish heritage or not, you're bound to enjoy the offerings of the 20th Annual JCC Lane Dworkin Jewish Book Festival. Running from Sunday, October 28, through November 11, the festival will bring in 15 nationally and locally known authors representing a variety of literary genres.

The festival starts with Randy Cohen presenting "Ticket to the Limit" on Sunday, October 28, at 7:30 p.m. in the JCC Auditorium (1200 Edgewood Ave.). As an entrepreneur, Cohen will describe the 10 principles he lives by, and how he developed his company from a tiny investment into TicketCity, voted one of the best places to work in Austin, Texas. Tickets cost $8-$11.

On Monday, October 29, listen to Bruce Ferber, Emmy-nominated former head writer for "Home Improvement," and David Javerbaum, former executive producer for "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart," at "Men's Comedy Night—Beer and Books." At 7 p.m. at the Genesee Valley Club (421 East Ave.) the two talented comedians will discuss their books, "Elevating Overman" and "The Last Testament: A Memoir by God," respectively. Tickets cost $25-$28.

Later in the festival Jay Michaelson (pictured) will speak on Thursday, November 8, at 7:30 p.m. in the JCC Auditorium (1200 Edgewood Ave.) on "God vs. Gay? The Religious Case for Equality." Michaelson, a Bible scholar and activist who has been nominated for a 2012 Lambda Literary Award, will argue that the Bible does not prohibit homosexuality. He is the author of four books and more than 200 articles on the interrelation between religion, spirituality, sexuality, and law. Tickets cost $8-$11.

For tickets to these events or for a full Book Festival schedule visit rjbf.org or call 461-2000.